Drug Discontinuation

HPS Pharmacies wish to give notice that Merck Sharp & Dohme have announced the discontinuation of Emend^® capsules as follows:

Emend^® Capsules
Aprepitant 165mg
ARTG 182320

Wholesaler stock of Emend^® capsules is expected to be depleted by April 2019. Emend^® IV (fosaprepitant) is currently in stock and will remain available to order.

Aprepitant is a substance P antagonist. Other substance P antagonists available include fosaprepitant and netupitant. Fosaprepitant is a prodrug that is rapidly converted to aprepitant following IV administration. A randomised, double-blind study demonstrated non-inferiority of fosaprepitant to a three-day regimen of oral aprepitant in patients receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy. Netupitant is an orally active substance P antagonist that is only available in combination with the 5HT₃ antagonist, palonosetron. Please consult with the product information for full prescribing guidelines.

Retain this notice in a prominent position, including in other related business units for one month. Report any problems identified with medicines, vaccines or medical devices to the TGA.

Should you require further information regarding this matter, please contact your pharmacist at HPS Pharmacies, or Merck Sharp & Dohme on 1800 678 883.